A Blog For Mums
Ah, knickers – those unsung heroes of our wardrobes that can make or break an outfit and our comfort levels. Whether you call them pants, undies, or drawers, finding the perfect pair is important.
After all, we spend most of our waking hours in them, so shouldn’t they be just right? Let’s dive into the wonderful world of underwear and uncover the secrets to selecting knickers that will have you feeling fabulous from the inside out.
Gone are the days when underwear shopping meant grabbing a multipack from the supermarket and hoping for the best. Today, we’re spoilt for choice with styles, fabrics, and fits to suit every body type and preference. But with great choice comes great responsibility – and sometimes, great confusion.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from understanding your body shape to decoding fabric labels. We’ll tackle common underwear woes, debunk myths, and share insider tips to help you build a knicker drawer that’s both practical and pretty. So get comfy and let’s talk about knickers!
Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of knicker shopping, it’s crucial to understand your body shape.
Just like our favourite outfits, the perfect pair of knickers should complement our unique curves and contours.
Let’s break down some common body shapes and what to look for in underwear for each:
If you carry more weight around your middle and have a fuller tummy, you’re likely an apple shape. For you, comfort and support are key. Look for:
Avoid anything that cuts across your midsection, as this can create unflattering bulges. Instead, opt for seamless styles that smooth your silhouette.
Blessed with curves in all the right places? Pear and hourglass shapes typically have fuller hips and bottoms. Your ideal knickers should:
Consider hipster or boyshort styles that offer full coverage without adding bulk. If you’re prone to chafing, look for longer leg styles to prevent thigh rub.
With a straighter figure, rectangle shapes often struggle with knickers that bunch or gap. Your perfect pair should:
Bikini styles and thongs can work well for you, as they offer a sleeker silhouette without extra material.
If you have broader shoulders and a smaller lower half, you’re an inverted triangle. Look for knickers that:
Boyshorts can be a great option, adding a touch of feminine flair to your lower half.
Remember, these are just guidelines. The most important thing is how you feel in your knickers. If you love them and they’re comfortable, that’s what matters most.
Now that we’ve covered body shapes, let’s talk about the stuff your knickers are made of.
The fabric of your underwear can make a world of difference in terms of comfort, durability, and how your clothes look over them.
Here’s a rundown of common underwear materials and their pros and cons:
The classic choice, cotton is breathable, absorbent, and gentle on sensitive skin. It’s perfect for everyday wear and sleeping. However, pure cotton can lose its shape over time and may not be the best for high-intensity activities.
Soft, smooth, and often moisture-wicking, microfibre is a popular choice for seamless styles. It’s great under tight clothing but may not be as breathable as natural fibres.
These eco-friendly options are super soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. They’re excellent for sensitive skin and maintain their shape well. The downside? They can be pricier than other options.
Synthetic fabrics are durable and often used in performance underwear. They’re quick-drying and maintain their shape well but may not be as breathable as natural fibres.
While pretty, these delicate fabrics are best reserved for special occasions. They’re not typically as durable or comfortable for all-day wear.
Many modern knickers feature a blend of fabrics to combine the best properties of each. Look for cotton blends with a touch of elastane for comfort and shape retention.
When choosing your knicker fabric, consider your lifestyle, skin sensitivity, and the clothes you’ll be wearing over them. For everyday comfort, a breathable natural fibre or blend is often the way to go. For workouts or form-fitting outfits, you might prefer a moisture-wicking synthetic or performance fabric.
With body shapes and fabrics covered, let’s explore the wonderful world of knicker styles.
From barely-there thongs to full-coverage briefs, there’s a style out there for everyone. Here’s a rundown of popular knicker types and who they might suit best:
The classic choice, briefs offer full coverage and support. They’re great for:
A lower-rise option that sits on the hips, bikinis are versatile and flattering. They work well for:
The go-to for eliminating visible panty lines, thongs are perfect for:
Offering coverage and a sporty look, boyshorts are ideal for:
A retro style making a comeback, high-waisted knickers are great for:
Sitting lower on the hips, hipsters offer a modern, comfortable fit. They’re suitable for:
Remember, the best style for you is the one that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Don’t be afraid to try different styles – you might be surprised by what you love.
We’ve all been there – struggling with knickers that ride up, roll down, or create unflattering bulges. Often, these issues come down to incorrect sizing.
Here’s how to ensure you’re wearing the right size:
Use a soft tape measure to determine your waist and hip measurements. Your waist is the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above your belly button. Your hips should be measured at the fullest part, typically around the bottom of your hip bones.
Every brand has its own sizing, so always refer to their specific chart. Don’t assume you’re the same size across all brands.
If you’re between sizes, consider going up a size if you have fuller hips or bottom, and down a size if you have a straighter figure.
Look for These Signs of a Good Fit:
If you experience any of these issues, you might need a larger size:
Consider a smaller size if:
Remember, your size may change over time or between styles. Don’t be afraid to try on different sizes to find your perfect fit.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s talk about building a knicker wardrobe that will see you through every occasion.
Here’s what every well-stocked underwear drawer should include:
These are your go-to knickers for lounging at home, running errands, or any day when comfort is key. Look for:
For those form-fitting outfits or when you want a smooth silhouette:
Because sometimes you need knickers that make you feel fabulous:
For gym sessions, runs, or any active pursuits:
When Aunt Flo comes to visit:
For those times when you want to feel extra special:
Aim to have enough knickers to last at least a week between washes. It’s also a good idea to replace your underwear regularly – about every 6-12 months, depending on wear and care.
While we’ve covered the basics, there are some special situations that call for specific underwear choices. Let’s explore some of these:
Expecting or new mums need knickers that offer comfort and support during a time of significant body changes:
After certain surgeries, you may need specialised underwear:
Special outfits often require special underwear:
Remember, while it’s great to have specialised options, comfort should always be your top priority. Don’t sacrifice feeling good for the sake of fashion.
And there you have it, a comprehensive guide to finding your perfect knickers.
We’ve examined body shapes, fabric choices, styles, and sizes, all in the pursuit of underwear nirvana. Remember, the perfect pair of knickers is the one that makes you feel comfortable, confident, and ready to take on the world.
When you next head out knicker shopping, keep these key points in mind:
Whether you’re a fan of frilly lace or prefer plain cotton, there’s a perfect pair of knickers out there for you. So go experiment, and fill your drawer with underwear that makes you smile.
After all, great days start with great underwear.
Self Care and Health